Attitudes and skills of Hong Kong Chinese medicine practitioners towards computerization in practice: a cluster analysis.

ABSTRACT

The objective was to determine whether definable subtypes exist within a cohort of Hong Kong Chinese medicine practitioners (CMPs) as related to computer use in their clinical practices based on their skills, attitudes, and background factors. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire. The sample of 954 CMPs was recruited in Hong Kong. The study employs personal and demographic variables, attitudes, and a skills scale. A cluster analysis yielded three clusters. Each cluster represents a different profile of Hong Kong CMPs on computer use in their clinical practices. A clear profile of Hong Kong CMPs may benefit healthcare professionals in appropriate education or assistance to prompt the use of computers by CMPs, an officially recognized profession.